Paz Vega's Directorial Debut "Rita" Secures International Sales

Los Angeles, CA — "Rita," the much-anticipated directorial debut from acclaimed actress Paz Vega, has begun to make waves in the international film market following its premiere at the American Film Market. The film, which also marks Vega's first screenplay based on her own childhood experiences in Triana, Sevilla, has secured key distribution deals, indicating strong global interest.

Filmax, the sales company representing "Rita," announced that Signature Entertainment has acquired the rights for the U.K. and Ireland. Signature, known for distributing films like "The New Boy," "Unicorns," and Viggo Mortensen’s "The Dead Don’t Hurt," expressed excitement over the acquisition. "Rita" showcases Vega not only as a director but also as a co-star playing the role of Mari, a mother living under the shadow of domestic violence in 1984 Seville.

Additionally, BookMyShow has clinched the rights for India, with Filmax’s head of international, Ivan Díaz, hinting at more deals to come.

The film has been well-received on the festival circuit, with screenings at Chicago for its U.S. premiere, Valladolid for its Spanish debut, and now at Tallinn, Seville, and Huelva festivals. Critics have praised the film's authentic portrayal of period details and Vega’s adept direction, especially her use of a child’s perspective to tell a story of innocence shadowed by familial strife.

Max Hart, Signature’s acquisitions and development executive, commented, “‘Rita’ blew us away with its incredible performances and subtle power, marking a truly impressive directorial debut from the iconic Paz Vega. We are delighted to be releasing the film in the U.K. and Ireland.”

The narrative of "Rita" focuses on the summer holidays of a seven-year-old girl, Rita, portrayed by Sofia Allepuz, whose home life is marred by her father’s abusive behavior. The film captures the bittersweet nostalgia of a working-class childhood, blending joy with the harsh realities of domestic violence.

"Rita" will screen at the Seville European Film Festival this Sunday evening as one of its major attractions, and Vega will be honored with the Premio Luz at the Huelva Ibero-American Film Festival next weekend.

Díaz from Filmax highlighted the significance of the U.K. and Ireland deal, stating, “The U.K. and Ireland market has traditionally been a hard sale for Spanish dramas, so this deal really is testimony to Paz Vega’s first outing as a director.”

As "Rita" continues to charm audiences and critics alike, its journey through the festival circuit and into international markets signals a promising start for Vega’s new career path behind the camera.